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About Us
Mitcheldean is a large and thriving community on the northern fringe of the Forest. The village has many old timbered houses and narrow streets. It was once known as 'Dene Magna' and was originally a small hamlet at a major crossroads. It was a producer of iron as well as, more uniquely, cloth and leather.
The village is surrounded by forested hills, an ideal location for hikers and walkers and offers spectacular views from many locations.
On the outskirts of the village is Plump Hill with a small community, pond and an old dolomite quarry which is now a 4.5-hectare (11-acre) nature reserve. The site is managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and is ideal for birdwatching and wildlife spotting and well known for its variety of butterflies.
A mile or so south of the village is St Anthony's Well, one of many throughout the land said to have magical curative powers. The water at this well is invariably icy cold and bathing in it is said to provide a cure for skin disease (St Anthony's Fire was the medieval name for a rampant itching disease). The monks at nearby Flaxley Abbey swore by it.
History
Mitcheldean is also home to the church of St Michael & All Angels with the nave and aisles built at varying times between the 13th and 15th centuries. Inside the church is a 15th century painting depicting the Last Judgement.
During World War II a factory in Mitcheldean started to produce cine cameras. This business was taken over by Rank and subsequently became Rank Xerox, employing over 5,000 people in the late 20th century, the largest employer in the Forest. Although the business has closed the site is still a large business park on the edge of the town which includes an artisan brewery. The old town hall includes the Xerox Museum.
